Bangkok: The Council - Ramkhamhaeng University Student Organization staged a protest at Government House, with students donning cardboard boxes to symbolize the losses associated with gambling. They submitted a letter of objection to Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra's administration, critiquing the government's move towards legalizing casinos and online gambling. The students emphasized the need for a referendum and urged the government to prioritize policies that safeguard the well-being of Thai citizens over those that support gambling.
According to Thai News Agency, the demonstration involved over 50 students from the Ramkhamhaeng University Student Council. The students presented their letter in opposition to the government's policy, which proposes the legalization of online gambling and the establishment of Entertainment Complexes featuring casinos. By wearing cardboard boxes, the protestors aimed to portray individuals who have suffered significant losses due to gambling. They also performed a satirical play to express their disapproval of what they termed as pro-vice era politics.
Mr. Worathep Phan-nern, President of the Student Council, explained that the government's policy involves amending secondary laws and at least three acts to integrate online gambling into the legal system. This policy is intended to address online gambling issues and implement a control system, while also pushing for legislation to establish legal casinos in Thailand. Mr. Worathep raised concerns about the necessity, transparency, and potential problems related to this policy. He highlighted the risk of casinos being used for money laundering and the subsequent increase in crime if preventative measures are not enforced.
He cited a 2023 study by the Gambling Problem Study Center, which revealed that 47% of youth aged 15-25 observed gambling among peers and were tempted to gamble themselves. The study also found that over 700,000 new gamblers engaged in online gambling for the first time. Mr. Worathep underscored the dangers of gambling addiction, likening it to drug addiction, and its potential to cause learning difficulties, stress, and various social issues.
Mr. Bodinchai Boonpok, Vice President of the Student Organization, outlined the proposals from the Student Council and related groups. They urged the government to reconsider and revoke the legalization policy due to its potential negative impact on youth and families. They also called for a referendum to involve public opinion in decision-making. The student groups plan to collaborate with civil society to gather 50,000 signatures to push for a referendum. Furthermore, they encouraged students and the public to join in expressing opposition to gambling legalization and urged the government to adopt policies that protect youth from the harms of gambling.